§ 6. Mr. Madelasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has for an early start on the reconstruction of the A418 ring road railway bridge at Linslade, Bedfordshire; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Keith Speed)Bedfordshire County Council, the local highway authority, has not yet put forward proposals for the reconstruction of this bridge. Until it does, we cannot suggest when the scheme might be carried out.
§ Mr. MadelUntil this bridge is reconstructed, heavy goods vehicles have to pass through residential areas on roads not built for that purpose. In view of the progress of the Heavy Commercial Vehicles Bill through the House, may I urge my hon. Friend to push Bedfordshire County Council to make an early start on the project?
§ Mr. SpeedThe decision is for the county council. I understand that it is trying to agree details with British Rail. It is up to the county council to put the scheme forward to my Department.